I'm wondering what anyone thinks of the volunteers giving patient's and the families/POA personal phone numbers? I've always left that decision up to my volunteers, but am now reconsidering that decision. Have any of you had problems with this issue? Do you instruct volunteers to keep their phone numbers private? I appreciate any and all comments on this topic.
Thank you
Laurie
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Replies
I instruct our volunteers not to give out their telephone numbers advising them that we serve as their "gatekeepers." When they call families to confirm visits, we advise to block their telephone number by dialing *67 prior to calling.
Teri Schmitchen, CVA
Seasons Hospice - Michigan
I advise my volunteers not to give out their personal phone numbers using the example of "do you want phone calls in the middle of the night". However, when you have a volunteer with a home patient and they need to confirm visiting/respite times I encourage them to phone block their number before calling. We have to constantly remind them, but I am sure some of them do since they are volunteering because they want to make a difference.
Jennifer Thompson, CVa
Rivercross Hospice - Tulsa